Open data has the potential to transform how governments make decisions, allocate resources, and build public trust. This session will show you how to apply new approaches on how you can unlock data’s value to improve policy outcomes and increase accountability.

• Increase transparency by opening access to key datasets
• Improve decision-making through real-time data integration
• Advance citizen engagement using interactive data platforms
• Optimize internal workflows through better data-sharing practices

Inviting innovation through public RFIs is redefining how government engages the market and solves complex challenges. This session will equip you with insights on how you can adapt this model to drive faster, more collaborative, and transparent service delivery.

• Amplify innovation by creating open channels for solution co-design
• Reduce procurement friction through early-stage vendor engagement
• Improve service outcomes by surfacing diverse, real-world ideas
• Adapt internal processes to better support iterative development

New York is home to some of the country’s most forward-thinking AI research, but the real value comes when these ideas solve real-world problems. This session will show you how to apply new approaches on how you can turn academic research into high-impact public service solutions.

• Bridge the gap between academic innovation and operational delivery
• Collaborate with agencies to improve public health, safety, and transit
• Scale AI pilot programs to benefit diverse communities
• Measure success in deploying AI to solve social challenges

Public trust depends on transparency, but achieving it requires more than just compliance— it demands a customer-first mindset. By integrating business goals with IT strategies and embracing agile principles, public sector organizations can build systems that serve both internal needs and public expectations.

This session will explore how Washington State is applying customer-driven approaches to enhance transparency, ensuring that technology, policy, and service delivery align with the needs of residents.

• Differentiate your agency in the public sector by adopting private-sector best practices
• Align business goals with IT strategies to create more transparent and efficient services
• Apply agile principles to improve responsiveness and accountability
• Learn how the Public Disclosure Commission embeds transparency into every decision and initiative

Modernizing IT systems is critical for governments to enhance efficiency, improve service delivery, and strengthen cybersecurity. Outdated infrastructure can slow down operations and create security vulnerabilities, making transformation essential.

This session will explore strategies to upgrade legacy systems, integrate emerging technologies, and streamline digital services to improve agility and resilience.

• Identify key barriers to IT modernization and how to overcome them
• Explore strategies to integrate cloud, AI, and automation into government operations
• Improve cybersecurity resilience while modernizing legacy systems
• Enhance cross-agency collaboration through better data and technology integration
• Leverage GIS technology to improve decision-making, service delivery, and infrastructure planning

Scot Barker

Chief Innovation Officer, City of Burlington

Ben Spear

Chief Information Security Officer, New York State Board of Elections

Franco Fausto

Deputy Superintendent for Information Security, New York State Department of Financial Services

Ensuring all citizens have access to digital services is no longer optional—it’s essential to economic mobility, public health, and civic engagement. This session will help you apply new approaches on how you can close connectivity gaps and design inclusive digital experiences that reach every resident.

• Improve broadband access in underserved and remote communities
  
• Advance digital literacy through cross-sector education programs
  
• Optimize service delivery for residents with limited tech skills or access
  
• Adapt procurement and infrastructure plans to prioritize equity
  
• Enrich collaboration between public agencies and community partners